Best Hard Drive Enclosures of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Hard drive enclosures are a versatile and valuable tool for anyone who needs to store or transfer data. Essentially a casing for a hard drive, these enclosures provide protection and connectivity for hard drives, allowing users to access their data from any computer with a USB port. They come in a variety of sizes and materials, from small plastic enclosures for portable hard drives to larger aluminum enclosures for desktop drives. Many also offer additional features such as built-in fans for cooling, and support for multiple hard drives. Overall, hard drive enclosures are a convenient and practical solution for anyone who needs to access or store large amounts of data.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

SABRENT 2.5" SATA to USB 3.0 Tool-Free External Hard Drive Enclosure Cover #TOP 1
SABRENT 2.5" SATA to USB 3.0 Tool-Free External Hard Drive Enclosure
ftb score rating icon 9.8
BENFEI 2.5 Inch SATA to USB Enclosure Cover #TOP 2
BENFEI 2.5 Inch SATA to USB Enclosure
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Mediasonic USB 3.1 Gen 2 10Gbps 4 Bay 3.5” SATA Hard Drive Enclosures Cover #TOP 3
Mediasonic USB 3.1 Gen 2 10Gbps 4 Bay 3.5” SATA Hard Drive Enclosures
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Hard Drive Enclosures

SABRENT 2.5" SATA to USB 3.0 Tool-Free External Hard Drive Enclosure

EC-UASP
Black
SATA Black
SABRENT 2.5" SATA to USB 3.0 Tool-Free External Hard Drive Enclosure Cover
SABRENT 2.5 Inch SATA to USB 3.0 Tool Free External Hard Drive Enclosure [Optimized for SSD, Support UASP SATA III] Black (EC-UASP)

The SABRENT 2.5" SATA to USB 3.0 Tool-Free External Hard Drive Enclosure is a great way to quickly and easily transfer data from an old hard drive or SSD to a new device. It features a tool-free design for easy installation, transfer rates up to 5 Gbps when connected to a USB 3.0 port, and is optimized for SSDs with UASP SATA III support. It is compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems, and is hot-swappable, plug and play, with no drivers needed.

What We Like
Easy installation
Good performance
Power switch feature
Well-packaged
Versatile for different drives
What We Don't Like
Requires tilting to remove drive
#TOP 2

BENFEI 2.5 Inch SATA to USB Enclosure

000346black
BENFEI 2.5 Inch SATA to USB Enclosure Cover
BENFEI 2.5 Inch SATA to USB Tool Free External Hard Drive Enclosure, USB Type-C/Type-A to Sata Compatible for 2.5 Inch SSD(Optimized for SSD, Support UASP SATA III)

The BENFEI SATA to USB Enclosure allows you to easily connect your 2.5-inch SATA hard drives to various devices, including PCs, laptops, and gaming consoles. With a speedy data transfer rate of up to 5 Gbps, you can quickly transfer files, making it ideal for those who need efficiency. The tool-free installation means you can set it up without any hassle—just plug in your drive and you’re ready to go. Plus, it supports a wide range of operating systems and is compatible with several popular hard drive brands, ensuring versatility for your storage needs.

What We Like
Tool-free installation
Fast data transfer speeds
Dual USB Type-C and A
Sturdy and durable design
Lightweight and portable
What We Don't Like
Short USB cable
All plastic construction

Mediasonic USB 3.1 Gen 2 10Gbps 4 Bay 3.5” SATA Hard Drive Enclosures

HF7-SU31C
Mediasonic USB 3.1 Gen 2 10Gbps 4 Bay 3.5” SATA Hard Drive Enclosures Cover
Mediasonic USB 3.2 4 Bay 3.5” SATA Hard Drive Enclosure DAS – USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gbps Type C | USB-C (HF7-SU31C) Support 24TB HDD

The Mediasonic USB 3.1 Gen 2 10Gbps 4 Bay 3.5” SATA Hard Drive Enclosures is a great storage solution for those looking for fast transfer rates and flexibility. It supports all brands of 3.5” SATA I/II/III hard disk drives up to 18TB per drive, and up to 4 x 18TB. It also supports SATA 3 6.0Gbps hard drive transfer rate, S.M.A.R.T/Power Sync features, UASP, and Smart Fan with built-in temperature sensor. Customers have reported speeds up to 600-800MB/s from their 4-disk RAID 0, and have found the enclosure to be stable and flexible. The package looks like a real product, and the fan is not loud.

What We Like
Simple installation
Works with USB 2.0
Good for older SATA drives
Compact design for multiple drives
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Potential drive issues
Limited speed with USB 2.0
#TOP 4

ORICO USB 3.0 External Hard Drive Enclosure

ORICO 3588US3-CA-BK
Black USB 3.0
ORICO USB 3.0 External Hard Drive Enclosure Cover
ORICO USB 3.0 External Hard Drive Enclosure for 3.5/2.5 Inch SATA Hard Drives/SSD Up to 20 TB, 3.5'' Tool-Free HDD Enclosure with 12V/2A Power Supply and UASP Acceleration (3588US3)

The ORICO USB 3.0 External Hard Drive Enclosure supports most 3.5 inch SATA I, II, III HDD or SSD up to 16TB(Max), and is compatible with Windows, Macintosh, Linux and Unix desktops or laptops. The tool-free installation allows for plug and play without reboot or driver required. With the USB 3.0 port offering data transfer rates up to 5 Gbps, this enclosure is made with rugged ABS material that is heat-resistant and drop-proof. The enclosure also features an anti-shock sponge and auto sleep mode for reduced energy consumption.

What We Like
Easy tool-less design
Supports multiple drive sizes
Good heat dissipation
Fast read speeds
Compact and portable
What We Don't Like
Cover feels slightly loose
Manual could be improved
#TOP 5

SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA External Hard Drive Lay Flat Docking Station

EC-DFFN
Black
SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA External Hard Drive Lay Flat Docking Station Cover
SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA External Hard Drive Lay Flat Docking Station with Built in Cooling Fan for 2.5 or 3.5in HDD, SSD [Support UASP and 22TB] (EC-DFFN)

The SABRENT USB 3.0 to SATA External Hard Drive Lay Flat Docking Station is a great choice for anyone looking to access their data from an old hard drive. It supports standard desktop 2.5"/3.5" SATA hard drives, has a built-in cooling fan, and is hot-swappable, plug and play, with no drivers needed. It also has a serial ATA bus up to 6Gbps signal bandwidth for fast storage backups and is reverse compatible with USB 1.1 & USB 2.0. Customers have found it to be reliable and easy to use, with a firmware update required for drives 3TB and above.

What We Like
Easy to use
Includes cooling fan
Fast data transfer
Compatible with multiple drives
Great value for money
What We Don't Like
Difficulty removing 2.5" drives
UK plug requires adapter
#TOP 6

GODO 3.5 Inch Hard Drive Enclosure

3.5" SATA Enclosure-Black
Black
GODO 3.5 Inch Hard Drive Enclosure Cover
GODO USB 3.0 to 3.5 Inch Hard Drive Enclosure, Vertical External Hard Drive Docking with Stand for 3.5 inch SATA HDD SSD, Aluminum Alloy Drive Case Support Up to 18TB with UASP,Power Adapter

The GODO Hard Drive Enclosure offers impressive features that enhance your storage experience. With a data transfer speed of up to 5Gbps thanks to UASP technology, you can move files quickly and efficiently. Its independent power supply ensures stable performance and protects your drives from potential damage, giving you peace of mind. Made from durable aluminum, this enclosure promotes heat dissipation and is easy to use—just plug it in without needing additional drivers. Plus, its wide compatibility with various operating systems and up to 18TB capacity makes it suitable for all your storage needs.

What We Like
Sleek and sturdy design
Fast transfer speeds
Easy installation
Space-saving vertical stand
Includes power supply and cables
What We Don't Like
Potential overheating issues
Some units may fail after months
#TOP 7

CENMATE 4 Bay HDD/SSD Enclosure

4 Bay
Black
CENMATE 4 Bay HDD/SSD Enclosure Cover
CENMATE 4 Bay Hard Drive Enclosure with Cooling Fan for 2.5/3.5" SATA HDD/SSD with USB A/C 3.0 Cable, Tool-Free HDD Enclosure, 3.5 Hard Drive Enclosure Support 80TB, Hot Swappable(NO RAID/NAS)

The CENMATE 4 Bay Enclosure offers a reliable external storage solution for both personal and business use, supporting up to 80TB of data across multiple HDDs and SSDs. You’ll appreciate the quiet operation and effective cooling provided by its aluminum construction and built-in silent fans, ensuring your data remains secure. With USB 3.0 connectivity, you can transfer large files quickly, making it easy to move a 1GB movie in just a few seconds. Plus, it’s compatible with various operating systems, enabling a hassle-free plug-and-play experience.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Easy installation
Hot-swappable drives
Good cooling system
Supports multiple drive sizes
What We Don't Like
Requires external power supply
Drives may get warm
#TOP 8

ORICO 5 Bay Hard Drive Enclosure DS500U3

ORICO-DS500U3-BK
500U3
ORICO 5 Bay Hard Drive Enclosure DS500U3 Cover
ORICO 5 Bay 3.5inch Hard Drive Enclosure USB 3.0 to SATA Magnetic Tool-Free External HDD Docking Station Case with 12V/6.5A Power Adapter for Family Storage Expansion Up to 90TB (5x18) - DS500U3

The ORICO 5 Bay Hard Drive Enclosure DS500U3 is a versatile storage solution that offers convenient and efficient data backup and exchange. With its tool-free installation, you can easily install hard drives in just 3 seconds, saving you time and improving your working efficiency. The enclosure supports up to 80TB of storage capacity, making it ideal for enterprise use. Its super-speed transmission via USB 3.0 ensures fast and efficient data transfer, while the built-in double ball bearing fan and large-area honeycomb holes in the rear panel help with heat dissipation. The enclosure also comes with multiple protection designs to ensure the security of data transmission. Compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux, the ORICO 5 Bay Hard Drive Enclosure DS500U3 is a reliable and convenient storage solution for your needs.

What We Like
Easy installation
Fast data transfer speeds
Large storage capacity
Good compatibility
Multi-protection features
What We Don't Like
Insufficient cooling
Drive sleep mode issues
#TOP 9

FEMORO USB 3.0 Hard Drive Enclosure

2.5''+3.5''
Black
FEMORO USB 3.0 Hard Drive Enclosure Cover
Hard Drive Enclosure 3.5, FEMORO USB 3.0 External Hard Drive Case with 12V 2A DC Power Adapter for 3.5 inch SATA HDD Reader, up to 20TB, Support UASP

The FEMORO Hard Drive Enclosure is designed for easy access to 3.5" and 2.5" SATA HDDs and SSDs. Its durable build and heat dissipation features protect your drives from damage while ensuring efficient cooling. You can enjoy fast data transfers with its intelligent chip that supports speeds up to 5Gbps, making it perfect for quick backups. The plug-and-play functionality means you won't need any additional tools or drivers, allowing you to get started right away. Plus, the LED indicator lets you monitor the power status, providing peace of mind as you work with your data.

What We Like
Affordable price
Easy to use
Good compatibility
Includes necessary accessories
Effective surge protection
What We Don't Like
Questionable build quality
Intermittent cable issues
#TOP 10

UGREEN External Hard Drive Enclosure

50423
Black
3.5 Inch
UGREEN External Hard Drive Enclosure Cover
UGREEN External Hard Drive Enclosure for 3.5 2.5 Inch SATA SSD HDD USB 3.0 to SATA III Hard Drive Case with UASP 12V Power Adapter Compatible with WD Seagate Toshiba Samsung Hitachi PS5 Xbox

The UGREEN Hard Drive Enclosure is designed for easy connection of your 3.5" or 2.5" SATA hard drives to various devices, enabling massive data transfers. With impressive 5Gbps speeds, you can enjoy faster file transfers, making it efficient for moving large files. The built-in intelligent chip enhances performance and the sturdy ABS material ensures your hard drives are held securely. Additionally, the soft rubber strips offer protection against shocks, while heat emission holes aid in maintaining optimal temperatures, ensuring your data remains safe and secure during use.

What We Like
Easy to use
Well-built and sturdy
Fast transfer speeds
Tool-free drive installation
Compatible with various drives
What We Don't Like
May open if handled roughly
Lacks spacer for smaller drives
Buying Guide Image

All You Need to Know About Buying Hard Drive Enclosures

Introduction to Hard Drive Enclosures

Hard drive enclosures are an essential piece of equipment for anyone looking to upgrade or expand their storage capabilities. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right enclosure for your needs. In this article, we will go over some important factors to consider when choosing a hard drive enclosure.

Compatibility

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a hard drive enclosure is compatibility. Not all hard drive enclosures are compatible with all hard drives, so it's important to ensure that the enclosure you choose is compatible with your hard drive. Most enclosures are designed to be compatible with either 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch hard drives, so be sure to check the specifications of both your hard drive and the enclosure to ensure compatibility.

Transfer Speed

Another important factor to consider is the transfer speed of the enclosure. The transfer speed refers to the speed at which data can be transferred between the hard drive and your computer. A faster transfer speed means that you'll be able to access your data more quickly, which can be especially important if you're working with large files or if you have a lot of data to transfer.

Most hard drive enclosures support USB 3.0, which offers fast transfer speeds. However, some enclosures also support other faster protocols, such as Thunderbolt or eSATA, which can provide even faster transfer speeds. If you need the fastest possible transfer speeds, be sure to choose an enclosure that supports these protocols.

Size and Portability

Another important factor to consider is the size and portability of the enclosure. If you need to frequently transport your hard drive, you'll want to choose an enclosure that is small and lightweight. On the other hand, if you're using the enclosure as a permanent storage solution, size may not be as much of a concern.

In addition to the size of the enclosure itself, you'll also want to consider the size of the hard drive that it can accommodate. As mentioned earlier, most enclosures are designed for either 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch hard drives, so be sure to choose an enclosure that is compatible with the size of your hard drive.

Price and Brand

Finally, it's important to consider the price and brand of the enclosure. There are many different brands of hard drive enclosures on the market, and their prices can vary greatly. In general, it's a good idea to choose a reputable brand that has a proven track record of quality and reliability.

At the same time, it's also important to consider your budget. Hard drive enclosures can range in price from under $20 to several hundred dollars, so be sure to choose an enclosure that fits your budget while also providing the features and performance that you need.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hard drive enclosure can be a daunting task, but by considering factors such as compatibility, transfer speed, size and portability, price, and brand, you can find the enclosure that is perfect for your needs. With the right enclosure, you'll be able to expand your storage capabilities and improve the performance of your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are hard drive enclosures good?

Yes, hard drive enclosures are a great solution for converting internal SATA hard drives into external portable ones. They allow for easy comparison of options and provide important information about the enclosures.

2. What type of hard drive enclosure do I need?

The type of hard drive enclosure you need depends on the form factor of your hard drive. For a 2.5-inch hard drive or SSD, you'll need a 2.5-inch SATA enclosure. If you have a 3.5-inch hard drive, you'll need a 3.5-inch SATA enclosure.

3. How long do hard drive enclosures last?

The average lifespan of an external hard drive enclosure is around 3-5 years, assuming no physical damage occurs. However, it's recommended to replace the enclosure every few years, especially if it's used for data backup, to ensure the safety of your data.

4. What are the cons of external hard drives?

External hard drives, like any other hardware, can be susceptible to corruption, fire and water damage, overheating, and malfunctioning. It's important to be aware of these risks and consider additional backup solutions to ensure the safety of your important data.

5. Do hard drive enclosures need power supply?

A 2.5-inch hard drive enclosure can receive power through the connected USB cable. However, a 3.5-inch hard drive requires an additional power supply. Most 3.5-inch HDD enclosures come with an external power adapter.

6. Can you put an SSD in a hard drive enclosure?

Yes, you can put an SSD inside a hard drive enclosure and connect it to your laptop as a regular hard drive. It's a popular way to use an SSD for additional storage or backup purposes.

Editor's Notes

During our hard drive enclosure research, we found 24 hard drive enclosure products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 401,573 customer reviews through our big data system to write the hard drive enclosures list. We found that most customers choose hard drive enclosures with an average price of $44.76.

The hard drive enclosures are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of hard drive enclosures, including SABRENT, BENFEI, Mediasonic, ORICO, GODO. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,846 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

Hard Drive Enclosures Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand SABRENT BENFEI Mediasonic ORICO SABRENT GODO cenmate ORICO FEMORO UGREEN
Hardware Interface USB SATA 6.0 Gb/s, USB 2.0 Type A, USB 3.0, USB 3.2 Gen 1 SATA 6.0 Gb/s, USB Type C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 USB 3.0 USB 3.0 Type A USB 3.0, USB 1.1, USB 2.0 USB 3.0 USB 3.0 Type B USB 3.0 SATA 3.0 Gb/s, USB 3.0
Hardware Platform Windows Windows PC / Mac / Linux PC, Linux, Mac Windows Windows MAC OS Linux Windows Mac Linux - Laptop PC
Color Black - - Black USB 3.0 Black Black Black 500U3 Black Black
Item Weight - 3.17 ounces 3.74 Pounds 0.24 Kilograms 9 Ounces 0.58 Kilograms - 4.84 pounds 0.4 Kilograms -
Memory Storage Capacity - 6 TB 24 TB 20 TB 6 TB 18 TB - - 20 TB -
Compatible Devices - Laptop Laptop, Desktop Gaming Console, Television, Desktop - Laptop, Desktop PC, Television - Laptop, TV, PC, Game consoles, Router Laptop, Desktop -
Hard Disk Form Factor - 2.5 Inches 3.5 Inches 3.5 Inches 2.5 Inches 3.5 Inches - - 3.5 Inches -
Max Number of Supported Devices - 1 4 1 1 1 - - 1 -
Data Transfer Rate - 5 Gigabits Per Second 10 Gigabits Per Second 5 Gigabits Per Second 5 Gigabits Per Second 5 Gigabits Per Second - - 5 Gigabits Per Second -
Material - Plastic Metal Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) - Metal - - Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.4
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